South India is a treasure trove of experiences, home to ancient temples, lush green landscape, stunning beaches and vibrant culture. A complete South India tour lets you experience a more serene, rich tapestry of heritage, spirituality, nature, and history. Discover a world where the fragrance of the sandalwood mixes with the aroma of tea leaves, coffee and spices and where the temple bells echoes through the stone corridors.
South is divided into Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. India Tours let’s take a journey to the highlights of South India.
1. Tamil Nadu: Where Spirituality Meets Timeless Architecture
Tamil Nadu is known for its spirituality and incredible architectural marvels, is one of the best Tours to India. The ancient temples towering the region is built in Dravidian style, and narrates mythological stories of the past.
Chennai, the Cultural Capital
Start your South India tour by landing in Chennai, a bustling city known for its rich culture, classical music, Bharatanatyam dance, and colonial heritage. Here visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple (an ancient Dravidian architecture design temple), Fort St. George (colonial era fort), Government Museum and Kalakshetra Foundation and relax at the Marina Beach.
Mahabalipuram, Sculpted Beauty
From Chennai, head towards Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is renowned for its Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and the intricately carved Five Rathas, showcasing the grandeur of the Pallava dynasty. Since it is located near the coast, it adds to the beauty.
Madurai and Thanjavur, Spiritual & Artistic Grandeur
Madurai is known for the incredible Meenakshi Amman Temple that captivates the attention with its towering gopurams and colorful sculptures. It is one of the ancient rock-cut temples that are functional till date.
Thanjavur possesses the Brihadeeswarar Temple, ancient temple built by Raja Chola I. Due to its architectural brilliance; it is designated as a UNESCO site. This is one of the enriching examples of the of the architectural brilliance of the Chola Kingdom.
Rameswaram, the Sacred Shore
You will be enthralled to know that Rameswaram is a small island town, home to the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple. It is designated as one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. What makes this temple is that it has the longest corridors in the world; the spiritual aura here is deeply touching.
These are some of the list of places that you must include in your India Tour Packages.
Suggested Tour Package: 13 Days South India Trip Package
2. Kerala: God’s Own Country of Nature and Wellness
Next on your Tours to India, visit Kerala which be described as the soul of natural beauty with its charming backwaters, coconut palms, misty hills, tea plantations, and Ayurvedic healing.
Kochi, a Blend of Cultures
Start your Kerala trip in Kochi which is a port city and takes you a journey through the colonial era of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Fascinating places to visit in Kochi include Fort Kochi, Jew Town, Mattancherry Palace, and witness the famous Chinese fishing nets (you can in fact see from Fort Kochi as well). Kochi’s multicultural history will offer you an immersive experience of the region.
Munnar, the Hill Station of Tea and Clouds
Experience the true beauty of nature in Kerala’s Munnar, the breathtaking hill station nestled in the Western Ghats. It is surrounded by lush green landscape, misty hills, tea plantations and spice gardens. Have a walk around the tea plantations and spice gardens; get captivated by its beauty. Visit the Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and other wildlife of the park.
Alleppey & Kumarakom, Backwaters and Houseboats
For the iconic backwater experience, take a houseboat cruise in Alleppey or Kumarakom. Nowhere else would you find such enchanting scenery, as you navigate through the complex water channels, you will pass through fishing villages, paddy fields, and coconut groves. The houseboat journey is not only an experience, but you will have an-depth connection knowing about the lifestyle of the local community.
Thekkady, Wildlife and Spice
If you want to have a close encounter with the wildlife and want to have a wildlife safari, visit Thekkady. It is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the largest number of wildlife in India. Apart from the elephants, you will be able to see bison, tigers and variety of birds. Don’t miss the spice plantation tours that lets you walk around cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Trivandrum & Kovalam, Culture & Coast
Visit the richest temples in the world that houses treasures, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum. Later explore the Kuthiramalika Palace. In Kovalam you can relax in the Kovalam Beach, enjoy an Ayurvedic massage by the sea.
Suggested Tour Package: 10 Days Kerala Tour Package
3. Karnataka: Where History and Nature Reside in Harmony
Next in your India Tours, head to Karnataka, once the home of the richest dynasties of India, and it is evident from the left legacies in stone. Also, it is blessed with rich flora and fauna, have an amazing wildlife experience exploring the jungles.
Bengaluru, the Silicon and Garden City
Start your journey in Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka. It is also India’s tech capital. Here visit the Bangalore Palace, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park and enjoy the city’s nightlife, cafes, and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Mysuru, Royal Heritage
If you want to know about the history of one of the richest dynasties of Karnataka, head to the beautiful city of Mysuru. Here you can visit the Mysore Palace (beautifully built with its Indo-Saracenic architecture), Chamundi Hill Temple and for shopping visit Devaraja Market.
Hampi, a Forgotten Empire
Visit Hampi, Once the capital of the glorious Kingdom of Vijayanagara Empire. It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rare wonders and attracts tourists from around the world. Hampi is situated in a surreal landscape on top of a rocky hill. Once you reach the site, you will be fascinated to see the ruins comprising of architectural wonders, Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple (renowned for its musical pillars and stone chariot), and Hemakuta Hill
Coorg, the Scotland of India
If you want to spend some time in a hill station, head to Coorg. It is one of the breathtakingly beautiful hill station located in Karnataka, surrounded by lush green landscape, misty hills, coffee plantations, and waterfalls. Here visit the Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, trek to Tadiandamol (highest peak in Coorg) and enjoy picturesque drives through the Western Ghats. Here is a list of some of the top places you must include in your India Tour Packages for an unforgettable journey.
Suggested Tour Package: 15 Days South India Tourism Package
4. Andhra Pradesh: Where Dynasties and Devotion Flourish
This southern state of India is known for its intricately carved rock temples, ancient Buddhist sites and the coastal bliss.
Tirupati, Devotion Personified
Start you journey in Andhra Pradesh with a visit to the ancient temple of India, Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati. This temple is spiritually acclaimed throughout the world and devotees from every corner visit to offer their prayers to the God.
Amaravati, Buddhism and Peace
There is a Buddhist town in Andhra Pradesh called Amaravati. It is situated on the riverbanks of the Krishna River. The Amaravati Stupa is a revered relic from the Mauryan era which makes it an important ancient spiritual site to visit.
Vijayawada & Visakhapatnam, Coastal Charm
Take a journey to another ancient kingdom of south, Vijayawada which is known for its ancient cave temples and vibrant markets. In Visakhapatnam you can simply head to the R.K. Beach, visit INS Kurusura Submarine Museum and explore the spectacular Araku Valley filled with alluring coffee plantations and lets you know about the tribal culture.
4. Telangana: The Young State with a Rich Heritage
Telangana welcomes everyone with its interesting centuries of history and culture. Have a amazing time knowing about this vibrant state.
Hyderabad, Nizami Elegance
Begin your journey in Hyderabad that offers a blend of both modern and ancient India. The top tourist attraction spots are Chowmahalla Palace and Salar Jung Museum (windows into imperial lifestyles), Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Qutb Shahi Tombs that will take you back to the era of the Nizams, and their flourish culture and history. Here Buddhism culture is also respected, in Hussain Sagar Lake; you can see the iconic Buddha statue at its center.
When in Hyderabad, don’t miss the famous Hyderabadi Biryani, haleem, and Irani chai. For an authentic taste of Hyderabadi Biryani, the best suggested spot is near Charminar, where till date it is prepared in ancient royal method.
Warangal, Temple Town
Another interesting destination to visit in Telangana is Warangal, once the capital of the Kakatiya dynasty. Here have an enriching experience knowing about the history of the region. The top tourist spots to visit include Warangal Fort, Thousand Pillar Temple, and the impressive stone gateways (toranas), which is one of the rich examples of medieval architectural design.
Suggested Tour Package: 14 Days South India Tour Package
Best Time to Visit
- The best time to visit South India is October to March as the weather is pleasant.
- Monsoon (June to September) is best for thriving foliage, waterfalls, and Ayurvedic treatments, especially in Kerala.
- In the summer (April to June) season are tourists can visit hill stations like Munnar, Coorg, Ooty, and Wayanad.
